2026 NFL Draft Quarterback Class Mock Draft + Michael Jordan and LeBron

Summary

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Outta Pocket with RG3 — 2026 NFL Draft Quarterback Class Mock Draft + Michael Jordan and LeBron

Host: Robert Griffin III (RG3)
Co-host: Grete Griffin
Date: April 20, 2026

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Episode Overview

In this episode, RG3 and Grete Griffin break down the best NFL fits for the top quarterbacks from the 2026 draft class, providing in-depth mock draft analysis, ideal landing spots, and developmental rationale for each QB prospect. The pair also discuss viral sports stories, including Michael Jordan’s historic impact in NASCAR and the lasting legacy—and present greatness—of LeBron and Bronny James in the NBA.

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Quarterback Landing Spots & Draft Analysis

1. Fernando Mendoza → Las Vegas Raiders (#1 Overall)

• Perfect Fit Reasons ([01:29]–[04:13])
  • Bridge QB in Kirk Cousins: Enables time for Mendoza to develop without immediate pressure.
    • “Knowing that he doesn’t have to be Superman on day one is a benefit.” — RG3 [01:50]
  • Leadership Identity: Mendoza transformed Indiana from worst to national champs; brings a winning mentality.
    • “With Fernando Mendoza comes an identity of leadership.” — RG3 [02:26]
  • Balanced, Modern Skillset: Can operate RPOs, scramble when needed, and run a modern offense.
• Raiders' Need: Last in several key offensive stats in 2025; craving stability and a leadership infusion.
• Coach Fit: Clint Kubiak, new OC, offers a developmental environment based on experience with young QBs. - “Most NFL teams mess it up for the quarterback…He’s going to give Fernando Mendoza an environment that he can grow and develop in.” — RG3 [04:09]

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2. Ty Simpson → Arizona Cardinals (2nd Round)

• Development Behind Vets: Jacoby Brissett & Gardner Minshew can groom Simpson.
  • “They will be able to teach him how to become a pro…they can help him develop and know how to play like a pro.” — RG3 [06:06]
• Expands Playbook: Brings deep-ball ability to an offense with skill players like Marvin Harrison Jr.
• High IQ QB Room: Praised as cerebral and self-aware regarding his limitations.
  • “Anyone who’s ever worked with Ty Simpson has always talked about how much ball he knows.” — RG3 [07:33]
• Draft Rationale: Not a first-round fit due to Arizona’s defensive needs, but a steal if available Day 2.

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3. Garrett Nussmeier → Miami Dolphins (5th Round)

• Backup for Timing-Based Offense: Fits Bobby Slowik’s system; previously made C.J. Stroud excel.
• Stock Drop, High Value: Injured in 2025 but was once a projected first-rounder.
  • “Now you get a first round pick in the fifth round.” — RG3 [08:30]
• QB Room Depth: Joins Malik Willis and Quinn Ewers for a youthful, versatile group.
• Role: Not a “hero” QB, but a reliable distributor when called upon.

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4. Carson Beck → Pittsburgh Steelers (4th Round)

• Pro-Style System Fit: New OC Brian Angelichio brings efficient, progression-read offense.
• Organizational Stability: Pittsburgh’s history supports QB development and patient growth.
  • “Any young quarterback needs to have an organization that’s going to have his back.” — RG3 [12:51]
• Cold Weather Arm: Proven ability to handle tough northern conditions.
• Competition: Likely to battle Will Howard for the future starting role.

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5. Drew Aller → New York Jets (4th Round)

• Elite Arm Talent: Raw physical gifts and vertical passing upside worth a developmental swing.
  • “Sometimes the best move you can make is taking a swing on the upside.” — RG3 [14:46]
• Opportunity: Immediate chance to be QB2 behind Geno Smith with a shot to prove himself.
• Jets' Philosophy: Looking more to 2027 at QB, but Aller offers rare tools if he develops.

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6. Cole Payton → Cleveland Browns (5th Round, after Dylan Gabriel trade)

• Dual-Threat Skillset: 6’3”, 232 lbs, 5,300+ passing yards, 2,100+ rushing yards, “can get jiggy with it on the ground.” ([17:23]–[17:46])
• Developmental Upside: Adds versatility and mirrors some aspects of Deshaun Watson’s game.
• Realistic Expectation: RG3 doubts the Browns’ ability to develop QBs but sees Payton as vital depth for a crowded, unstable QB room.

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7. Taylen Green → Kansas City Chiefs (5th Round)

• Combine Phenomenon: Fastest, most explosive QB at the 2026 Combine (Boise State/Arkansas).
• Best Developmental Situation: Can sit behind Patrick Mahomes & Justin Fields; learns from Andy Reid.
• System Match: Chiefs’ creative offense maximizes athletic QBs; opportunity to refine decision making without early starting pressure.
  • “Kansas City just gave raw talent a PhD in quarterback play by learning from Mahomes and learning from Andy Reid.” — RG3 [22:20]

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8. Kade Klubnik → Dallas Cowboys (5th Round)

• Developmental Time: Can learn behind an established starter (Dak Prescott).
• Leadership Pedigree: 3-year starter at Clemson, undefeated state champ at Texas HS powerhouse Westlake.
  • “He led them to three consecutive state championships…He was 27–0 in his final two seasons, compiling an incredible 86 to 7 touchdown–interception ratio.” — RG3 [25:36]
• System and Community: Texas native, playing for Cowboys provides ideal support.

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9. Sawyer Robertson → Buffalo Bills (7th Round)

• Cold Weather Arm: Tough, strong arm, fits Buffalo’s climate and play style.
• Development Behind Josh Allen: Similar physical toolbox; low-risk, high-upside pick to learn behind one of the league’s best.

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10. Diego Pavia → Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7th Round)

• Mobility & Bravado: Adds movement skills, mirrors Baker Mayfield’s energy and locker room presence.
• Risk/Reward Pick: Size concerns hurt his stock, but as a late-round flyer his dynamic play offers upside if developed patiently.

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Notable Quotes and Memorable Moments

• “They tried to write me off, but I didn’t write back.” — RG3 referencing Geno Smith’s classic quote [14:03]
• On Taylor Green’s physical gifts: “Fastest quarterback ever at the combine…longest broad jump ever... might be the sneakiest great landing spot in the entire draft.” — RG3 [19:52]
• RG3 playfully: “Who? Just kidding. I know who Cole Payton is.” — RG3, discussing less-famous prospects [15:55]
• Praise for Mahomes: “Kansas City just gave raw talent a PhD in quarterback play by learning from Mahomes and learning from Andy Reid.” — RG3 [22:20]

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Viral Spiral: Sports & Culture Hot Topics

1. Michael Jordan & Tyler Reddick’s NASCAR Domination

([31:17]–[33:17])

• Historic Season: Jordan’s 23XI team with Reddick have won 5 of 9 races, including Daytona 500 and Atlanta.
• Cultural Impact:
  • “Michael Jordan has brought it to you and Tyler Reddick is your guy. Run with it.” — RG3 [32:48]
  • “This could be the beginning of a new golden age [for NASCAR].” — RG3 [33:17]

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2. LeBron & Bronny James: NBA Greatness & Legacy

([33:25]–[37:29])

• LeBron’s GOAT Case: At 41, carrying the Lakers — if he wins a title this year, RG3 cedes GOAT status.
  • “If LeBron James wins an NBA title this year…he would be the greatest of all time.” — RG3 [33:42]
• Father–Son NBA Milestone: LeBron and Bronny playing and competing as teammates in playoffs.
  • “LeBron and Bronny just keep making history.” — RG3 [35:17]
• Responding to Nepotism Critique:
  • “You can get me a job, but then I gotta do something about getting the job, taking the job, being great at the job.” — Co-host [36:35]
  • “At some point, those wheels are gonna have to reach the road, and you’re gonna find out if you can roll or if you can’t.” — RG3 [37:03]

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Timestamps & Segment Guide

• 00:00–01:18 — Show open, episode preview
• 01:19–29:57 — NFL Draft QBs: Each major QB prospect’s best landing spot & rationale
• 31:17–33:17 — Michael Jordan & Tyler Reddick’s NASCAR run
• 33:25–37:29 — LeBron & Bronny James: Playoff run, legacy, and family history

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Tone & Style

• Conversational, humorous, and energetic with RG3’s trademark optimism and in-depth football IQ.
• Frequent playful banter and “outta pocket” moments, i.e. RG3’s joking “Who?” at Cole Payton and extended “rubber meets the road” analogies.

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Summary Takeaways

• Quarterback fits aren't just about talent—they’re about environment, opportunity, and timing.
• Historic sports moments, like Michael Jordan’s impact in NASCAR and LeBron/Bronny in the NBA, represent a new era of legends redefining and extending their influence.
• The episode underscores RG3 and Grete’s holistic approach, blending hard football analysis with broader conversations on sports culture, icons, and memorable storylines.

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If you want to catch RG3’s outta pocket takes, quarterback scouting wisdom, and vibrant sports culture convos, this episode is a must-listen.

Transcript

[RG3]

Are you wondering which quarterback from the 2026 NFL Draft Class just walked into the perfect NFL situation? Do you ever wonder if the best quarterback landing spot isn't the number one pick but the one where the development meets opportunity? Do you want to know if the best quarterback situation is about talent or timing? Then this is the place for you. Today we will break down where the top quarterbacks from the 2026 NFL Draft Class should go and in what projected round we'll break down. Maybe maybe with the Baltimore Ravens, maybe with the Walter Commands may Cleveland Browns need to do to improve their draft and improve their teams. But we will certainly talk about LeBron James and Bronny James and all the history they are making in the historic run by Michael Jordan and Tyler Redick in NASCAR this season. Welcome to out of pocket with RG3 hosted by your boy and the lovely, amazing 125 time all American Gret. Make sure you like and subscribe to our podcast. Guys, we can't get this done without you, so we appreciate your support. Go ahead, move that mouse over. Click on the subscribe button. Leave a comment. Let us know what you think about the topics that we have on this slate and who you want us to bring on the show next and we will make that happen. You ready to roll?

[Co-host]

I'm ready to roll.

[RG3]

Let's get it.

[Co-host]

Opening drive. Let's find the perfect fit for this year's group of QBs in the NFL Draft. Where should Fernando Mendoza be drafted?

[RG3]

I think Fernando Mendoza should be drafted to the Las Vegas Raiders. You know, I don't think that's anyone's secret, but they're a match made in heaven, in my opinion. And here are the three reasons why this works. Number one, they have a bridge quarterback. His name is Kirk Cousins. He used to be my teammate. That allows them developmental time with Fernando Mendoza. Like carrying that veteran starter makes it to where you don't have to force him in as a starter. Day one, if he's not ready, do I think he'll be ready? Yes, I do. He's extremely cerebral. He's got all the traits. He's got the height, he's got the arm strength. He wins between his ears. But knowing that he doesn't have to be Superman on day one is a benefit. It also allows mastery of the little things in the NFL that go a really long way. Protections, timing of the routes, the speed of the game and how fast it becomes. Because he doesn't have that pressure to start it right away, he can really hone in on those things, and then this roster is ready for a leadership identity.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

All right. You're talking about a guy who went into Indiana, was the worst team in college football history, lost the most games, and they won a national championship. With Fernando Mendoza comes an identity of leadership. The same could be said about Tom Brady, but maybe not. When he came out of Michigan, he wasn't the same type of winner that Mendoza is. But now he's going to a team owned by Tom Brady. And I think Brady sees a lot of himself in Fernando. And then the third thing is the balanced skill set for a modern offense.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

Right. He has enough athletic ability to run when he has to. You can do RPOs with him, and you can run quarterback zone reads, but he really is a killer for you when he's scrambling. All right, Play breaks down, there's a big hole open. He can fill it. Stop. He can fill it. And the way I look at this, the Raiders, they're. They're not just drafting a quarterback when they get Fernando Mendoza, they're drafting stability. Okay. On offense, the Raiders were last in points per game. They were last in yards per game, and they were last in points per play. And 28th on third down doesn't get much worse than that.

[Co-host]

Yeah.

[RG3]

So bringing in a guy like Kirk Cousins to be that bridge and then drafting Fernando Mendoza, number one overall, provides stability at the position when you pair him with Aston Genty, Brock Bowers, giving them a young core that they can build around for the next 10 years. And I think Clint Kubiak, coming over from Seattle, winning a Super bowl as their offensive coordinator, understands that Most NFL teams mess it up for the quarterback, they mess up their development, and he's going to give Fernando Mendoza an environment that he can grow and develop in.

[Co-host]

I see that. And I think drafting Fernando to Vegas, like, this is the last thing you got to worry about. Like, that's such a good kid. Like, you bring him to Vegas, you're like, we got no worries.

[RG3]

Facts.

[Co-host]

All right, where do you think Ty Simpson fits in the best?

[RG3]

Well, I mean, if you're. If you're Dan Olafsky, you think he should go number one overall to the. To the. To the Las Vegas Raiders. I mean, he's beating that drum like somebody stole something from him. But what I would say is that Ty Simpson is a perfect fit for the Arizona Cardinals with Michael 4, their new head coach. He's coming over from the Los Angeles Rams and that offense with Sean McVeigh. And I don't think that they should draft him in the first round. I think he's a first round talent, but I think he should go in the second round because the Cardinals should draft Arvl Reese from Ohio State in the first round to pair him with Josh Sweat who had 12 sacks last year because it would help them against these high powered offenses that they have to go against. When you look at The Rams, the 49ers, the Seattle Seahawks, that division is absolutely loaded. You have to look at your roster and say, is drafting Ty Simpson in the first round going to help us beat those teams? I don't think it does, but I do think if he is there in the second round they should go get him. And let me give you the three

[Co-host]

reasons I was going to say like, but like, do you think they should draft him? Because if they don't, do you think somebody else will take him?

[RG3]

I think quarterback is always a premium. Yeah, right. So they always talk about this. Quarterbacks typically get drafted higher than you think they would get drafted because it's a QB needy league. And Ty Simpson, like I said, I do believe he's a first round talent. But when you look at your team you have to say, are we drafting this young man and putting him in a position to win? Yeah, I don't think that drafting him number in the first round is putting him in a position to win. When you could get an elite level talent that's going to help him get the ball back and then still potentially be able to go up and get him.

[Co-host]

I see that. Okay.

[RG3]

All right. So the three reasons that I think that the Arizona Cardinals should draft Ty Sensom is number one, developmental insurance behind Jacoby Brissette and Gardner Minshew. Okay, those are two really good vets. And when I say really good, I mean they're really good. They will be able to teach him how to become a pro. Neither of those guys is instilling the confidence in that team that they can go beat. Sam Darnold and the Seahawks, Matthew Stafford and the Rams, or Brock purdy and the 49ers, that's just a God honest truth. But they can help him develop and know how to play like a pro. Two different play style expands the playbook. You know, when you think of Gardner Minshew, I think the average fan's like, I don't know what he, what he does. He's got a great mustache and great hair. When you think of Jacoby Brissette, I don't think the average fan knows like what does he do? Well, well he's, he's a great leader in my opinion. I think he's a great locker room guy.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

But when you look at Ty Simpson, everyone knows because he's so fresh and playing in Alabama, he is a guy that can stretch the field. All right? So you pair him with guys like Marvin Harrison Jr. Trey McBride, Michael Wilson, he's going to be able to push the ball down the field. His quick release allows him to get off those passes in those tight windows that maybe other guys can't quite make. So I think that pairing works out really, really well for them. And the three reason is I think it gives you a high IQ quarterback room.

[Co-host]

Got it.

[RG3]

Anyone that's ever worked with Ty Simpson has always talked about how much ball he knows and how well he uses his skill set. Right? He can run. He knows he can't run like Lamar Jackson, so he doesn't try. He knows that he can throw. He probably can't throw it as far as Josh Allen, but he has a quick release and knows how to push the ball down the field and has plenty enough arm strength. So I think for them, giving Mike LaFleur, a guy with arm talent, you know, to run his version of a West coast offense is going to be the best thing for them. And that's why I think Ty Simpson should go to the Cardinals.

[Co-host]

Okay, so where do you think Garrett Nussmeier fits in best?

[RG3]

Nussmeier, man, this is, this is an interesting one because I don't have a ton of quarterbacks in, in my mind in the draft going, going in the first two rounds. So I look at Garrett Nussmeier and I say, in the fifth round, the Miami Dolphins should take a shot at Garrett Nussmeier.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

All right. Three reasons why. Number one, he's the perfect backup for a timing based offense. All right, you're talking about, this is where he excels. Bobby Slowik is the offensive coordinator in Miami. Why do people remember that name? Well, it's because he had C.J. stroud looking like he was a top five quarterback in his rookie year in Houston. Yeah, he was their offensive coordinator. So why would it, why would you say draft Garrett. Draft Garrett Nussmeier in the fifth? Well, they got Malik Willis, and Malik Willis has had a career resurgence that's been really impressive to see from his time in Green Bay. But in this timing based offense, you're going to need some insurance policies behind him. All right, number two, I think he's a steal in the fifth round because he's coming off of a down year. At lsu partially because he played injured and that affected his throwing ability. But last year, if he would have came out in the 2025 draft class, everyone was saying he was a first round pick. So now you get a first round pick in the fifth round, right? That, that and that's protection just in case something happens at the quarterback position which you have to, you know, plan for. And then number three, I would say Miami doesn't need a hero if Malik Willis goes down. They need a distributor of the ball. That's what Quinn yours is. You can't forget that he is there in Miami as well. But having Garrett Nussmeier there gives you two guys that you know, hey, this strengthens our quarterback room. We got a first round talent in Nussmeier in the fifth round and from quarterback one through quarterback three, we have youth, we have guys that have played a lot of football and we have guys that know what their role is in the offense. That's why I would go with Nussmeier to the Dolphins and round fellow the NBA playoffs are finally here and underdog is the best place to get in on all the action. Playing on underdog is easy, people just pick whether your favorite players will go higher or lower on stats like points, rebounds, steals and more. Get your picks right and you could win up to 5,000 times your cash this week. Underdog I'm looking at the Raptors in the Cavs game and selecting Scotty Barnes for higher than 18 points and Donovan Mitchell for lower than seven rebounds. Download the app today and use promo code RG3 to score $50 in bonus entries when you play your first $5. That's promo code RG3. Underdog make picks win money. You must be 18 plus or 19 plus in Alabama, New England, 19 plus in Colorado for some games, 21 plus in Arizona, Massachusetts and Virginia and present in a state where underdog fantasy operates. Terms apply. Concerned with your play, call 1-800-MY-RESET or 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org. in Arizona, it's 1-800-Next Step, 1-800-639-8783 or text Next Step to 53342 In New York, call the 24. 7, HOPE line at 1-87-7-8, HOPE New York or text HOPE New York to 467-369.

[Co-host]

Where do you think Carson Beck fits in best?

[RG3]

Oh, Carson Beck. It's gonna seem a little backwards, but I think Carson Beck needs to go to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth round. Okay, the Steelers don't gamble on chaos. They always invest in consistency. All right. Carson Beck has proven across two different universities that he can be a guy that can lead you to the game that is the promised land. Right.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

And win it. Okay. So for me, you look at that and you say, here's the three reasons why the Steelers should take Carson Beck. But pro style quarterback with a structured offense that new OC Brian Angelicio is bringing in from Minnesota where he was the passing game coordinator.

[Co-host]

Okay. Okay.

[RG3]

All right. So Minnesota over the years, who Sam Darnold was there, went to Seattle, won a Super Bowl. Right. They brought in McCartney and he goes out and plays. Okay. But the bottom line is their passing game has been extremely efficient. Justin Jefferson is dang near led the league in every passing category over the past couple seasons in part because Brian Alicio was there making those calls.

[Co-host]

Makes sense.

[RG3]

So I think Carson Beck thrives in progression read systems. So now you bring in a coordinator that knows how to put the quarterback in the right position with the weapons that they have in Pittsburgh. It fits him. Number two, organizational stability. All right. Any young quarterback needs to have an organization that's going to have his back.

[Co-host]

Right.

[RG3]

Facts and a proven track record that they're going to put the player's development first.

[Co-host]

Absolutely.

[RG3]

And number three, you got to have cold weather arm strength. If you go to Pittsburgh, it's going to be cold.

[Co-host]

It's going to be cold.

[RG3]

All right. Carson Beck can push the ball down the field. He's a big sucker, all right. He's had a lot of experience playing as well. And listen, playing experience doesn't always lead to success. But when you look at him and Will Howard, both of them have done a lot of winning. All right. And the Steelers don't just survive, they last for a long time. So whether they get Aaron Rodgers back or not, huh? They need to go ahead and draft Carson Beck and have a competition there with Will Howard to determine who is going to be their potential quarterback of the future. And taking Beck in the fourth doesn't make him the future. But I also think a quarterback with that much experience and playing in big time games, I also think he's a still in the fourth round.

[Co-host]

Okay, let's see that. What do you think Drew Aller fits in best?

[RG3]

Drew Aller, man, this is a tough one. But. But I'm going to go with the Jets.

[Co-host]

The Jets, Okay.

[RG3]

I don't think the jets believe that their franchise quarterback is in this draft. I really don't. That's why they made the move to Go get Geno Smith.

[Co-host]

Okay, okay.

[RG3]

Geno Smith. Remember he had the classic quote? I believe it was, they tried to write me off, but I didn't write back. And then last year, he had one of the worst years of his NFL career playing for the Las Vegas Raiders. Well, now he gets traded to the Jets. He is their bridge quarterback, but I don't think he's their bridge quarterback for a quarterback in this draft.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

I think he's their bridge quarterback for a quarterback in next year's draft.

[Co-host]

Got it.

[RG3]

So when you look at Drew Aller, I think you draft him for three reasons.

[Co-host]

Okay. And when's the. What pick? What round?

[RG3]

I'm going with Drew Aller in the fourth round.

[Co-host]

Fourth round.

[RG3]

Okay. And that might be high for some people, but the reason I'm saying that is because sometimes the best move you can make is taking a swing on the upside.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

Okay. So here's the three reasons why I think the jets should draft Drew Allergies. One, elite arm, talent that is worth developing. I don't think he was. I don't think he was developed at Penn State the right way.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

Okay. So now you have to take it upon yourself as a coach and say, can I work with this and make him and mold him into what I believe he needs to be to be the best NFL quarterback he can possibly be. He has very rare physical tools. All right, number two, opportunity exists on the depth chart behind Geno Smith. You know, he can win that backup job, and he'd be one play away from being the guy if he earns it right? So you take a guy with elite traits and physical tools and there's an opportunity behind the starter. Why not number three, his vertical passing upside. A lot of people have been talking about, man, we need to be. The jets need to be more explosive with Garrett Wilson. And now they got a Donnie Mitchell on the outside. Well, guess what? Drew Ellis got a big arm. It'd be in a big market. It'd be a massively big opportunity for him to go out and potentially prove to the jets that he could be the guy if his opportunity. Opportunity arose.

[Co-host]

Where do you think Cole Payton fits in best?

[RG3]

Who? Just kidding. I'm just kidding. I know who Cole Payton is. And here's the thing. A lot of people might not know, but let me tell you a little bit about Cole Payton.

[Co-host]

Let's hear it.

[RG3]

All right. Cole Payton.

[Co-host]

I am so dead.

[RG3]

Why are you dead?

[Co-host]

He said who?

[RG3]

No, I know exactly who it is. And I think Cole Payton should be drafted by The Cleveland Browns.

[Co-host]

Why? Why are you gonna do that, man? Like that?

[RG3]

I'm not. I'm not doing them like. I'm not doing them like anything. All I'm saying is the Cleveland Browns should draft Cole Payton in the fifth round after they trade Dylan Gabriel to the Falcons.

[Co-host]

Okay, so for a man who. You say who and that people don't know who he is, you're gonna put him in fifth round?

[RG3]

Fifth round. Okay, listen.

[Co-host]

I'm listening.

[RG3]

Over the last three seasons as a starter, huh? Cole Payton was 31 and 5.

[Co-host]

Okay, tell the people what school he went to.

[RG3]

Cole Payton went to North Dakota State. Over the last three seasons as a starter, he was 315 in North Dakota State. North Dakota State. What does that mean? Don't. Don't. Don't you. North Dakota State.

[Co-host]

What's that? Nds.

[RG3]

What is India you talking about? Yes, them. North Dakota State Bison. They winning program.

[Co-host]

They real like that?

[RG3]

Oh, they are real like that. Trust me.

[Co-host]

They beat South Dakota.

[RG3]

That's the rival. 315 as a starter, piled up 5,338 passing yards. Oh, okay.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

65 touchdowns through the air, another 2,122 yards on the ground, and 37 scores. Okay, so he is a true dual threat quarterback. He has all the traits. 63232. Can throw it a country mile and can get jiggy with it on the ground. So why do I think they should take him? I think they need some positional versatility.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

Behind Shadir Sanders, that gives them something that the starter doesn't. Because I fully believe that Shadow Sanders should be the starter in Cleveland right now. You bring in this guy and who. Who does his skill set kind of remind you of? Reminds you of desean Watson. So the three reasons that I think that they should draft Cole Payton is one, the dual threat capability. It adds the scheme. Right now he's competing with Deshaun Watson because I believe DeSean Watson is one foot out the door and possibly gone next year. Two, developmental upside. If this guy gets the opportunity to play because something unfortunate happens to Shadir Sanders, it opens up the entire playbook and some for the offensive coordinator to be able to call those plays. And the number three, you know, quarterback depth historically has always been valuable. So the Browns will benefit from the competition. But the bottom line is traits get coaches excited. Cole Payton has all of them.

[Co-host]

And you think that Cleveland Browns will develop. Develop him the right way?

[RG3]

Is that a loaded question? No, I. I don't have faith that the Cleveland Browns will develop Any quarterback the right way. But what I do know is the situation they have right now with Dylan Gabriel and DeSean Watson and Shadir Sanders is unattainable. You have to find a way to move some of those pieces. No one's taking desean, everybody. I think the Browns are committed to keeping him on the roster, but with Dylan Gabriel, trading him to the Falcons, yes, that puts him Behind Michael Penck Jr. That puts him behind Tua Tagavailoa, but it reunites him with the coach who wanted him the most in Kevin Stefanski, and it. And it eliminates this divide, if there even is still a divide amongst the fan base between Shedeur and Dylan Gabriel by bringing in Cole Payton. Yes, there, there may be some form of excitement that, hey, this guy could possibly be whatever. But I believe the fan base is fully entrenched in the Shadow Sanders camp of saying, we want this guy to be our starter. So is the locker room. And at that point now you're just, you're just protecting the rest of your room to give you something in case the starter goes down.

[Co-host]

Okay, where do you think Taylor Green fits in?

[RG3]

Taylor Green. Okay, if you guys don't remember who Taylor Green is, Taylor Green is the NFL combine freak. Started off at Boise State, then transferred over to Arkansas. Fastest quarterback ever at the combine. I believe he's got the highest vertical ever for a quarterback at the combine, the longest Bronx jump ever for a quarterback, broad jump ever for a quarterback at the combine. And I believe he should go to the Kansas City Chiefs in the fifth round. Oh, all right. This actually might be the sneakiest great landing spot in the entire draft.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

All right. Let me tell you the three reasons why the Kansas City Chiefs should draft Taylor Green out of Arkansas.

[Co-host]

All right?

[RG3]

One, he gets to learn behind Patrick Mahomes. That could be all three reasons, to be quite honest with you, a no brainer. A guy like Mahomes, who's a creator, right, plays the game in an unconventional way and has learned and adapted his game to be more of the pocket passer that can beat you throwing the short passes and hitting, hitting you along with the deep ball, I think that's invaluable and it might be the best developmental situation in football. Number two, his athletic traits match the system. Creativity. What do I mean by that? The Chiefs, and in particular Andy Reid, does a great job of maximizing playmakers at the quarterback position. He developed Donovan McNabb, he helped Michael Vick in his career resurgence, and obviously Patrick Mahomes. A lot of people when they drafted Mahomes at 15 overall. They're like, why did they draft that guy? I remember Tyreek Hill said after a couple practices he said, this guy's never going to start. Oh, and then guess what? In his first year, what did he do? Went out AFC champion. Okay. Now he's won a boatload of Super Bowls and every year the Chiefs are almost a favorite to win the super bowl as long as he's healthy. And number three of reason why they should draft Taylor Green, it's time to refine his decision making. When you don't have that pressure on you to start early like now you're, now you're there with Justin Fields as well with, with Mahomes status for the regular season kind of up in the air of like, is he going to be able to start in the opener? You got two quarterbacks who are dual threat guys who need help with their decision making, who need help with their development in a, in a true west coast style game with a coaching Andy Reid and a tight end in Travis Kelsey, Andy Reid is going to help them see the game clearer. I think that would be the perfect situation for Taylor Green because Kansas City just gave raw talent a PhD in quarterback play by learning from Mahomes and learning from Andy Reid.

[Co-host]

Do you think Patrick Mahomes, when he comes back from his acl, do you think he's going to be the same quarterback?

[RG3]

I think he'll be better. Oh yeah, I think Mahomes will be better.

[Co-host]

His back end is better.

[RG3]

I think he'll be back at better because he is spending so much time right now working on his body. I think his body will be in the best shape of his life because the number one thing that we both know from tearing an acl, when you come back, you have to find a way to make maybe one of your weaknesses a strength, especially when you can't work on the thing that's always been your strength. So I don't know what it may

[Co-host]

be, but you don't have some biceps on him, that's for sure. You're going to work on his arms.

[RG3]

I came, I came back with some. With some, some. Me too when I came back. So I do believe he'll be back and better. I know that they're working and, and he wants to be ready for week one and, and play right away. But I, if there's anyone you don't want to doubt, it's Patrick Mahomes.

[Co-host]

That's true. All right. Where do you think Kate Clubnick fits

[RG3]

in the best all right. Kade Klubnick fits in best with the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round. Now, if you notice, I've had a lot of quarterbacks going in the fifth, and the reason for that is I think this draft is really heavy on the defensive side. And I think a lot of teams are going to push drafting a quarterback who maybe had been envisioned as a first, second, third round guy to a fourth, fifth, six round guy because they can afford to. Not as many teams need a quarterback this year.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

Or the ones that do, maybe they only believe in Fernando Mendoza or Ty Simpson. So I think the quarterbacks are going to drop a little bit here.

[Co-host]

Sanders on them.

[RG3]

Exactly. And especially with K Clubnick, because Cade was the guy that everyone thought was going to be a first round pick. Just knowing his history going to Clemson and it just felt like he never truly got developed the right way at Clemson, whether it was with the guys around him or the scheme that they were running. But here are the three reasons why I think the Dallas Cowboys should draft K club.

[Co-host]

Okay?

[RG3]

All right. Development behind an established starter, Dak Prescott is the guy in Dallas.

[Co-host]

Yes.

[RG3]

Period, no questions asked. So he will have time to grow. He will have time to learn the ropes, learn how to be a pro, learn how to adjust the protections, learn when to make the throws, learn how to be anticipatory in the throws that he needs to make. And then see how a game plan gets built around CD Lamb. See how game plan gets built when you have two number one wide receivers in CD Lamb and George Pickens. The second reason, his leadership pedigree.

[Co-host]

Okay, all right.

[RG3]

This guy, he's been a three year starter at Clemson, Four year part time starter. So he, he obviously knows what it takes to lead an organization through the rough times. Right? It wasn't always Rosie at Clemson and through the good times when they were able to win conference championships and make their ways through the college football playoffs. So. And he's a proven winner. You look at this guy at Westlake High School. If you don't know who Kate Klubnick is, go read his bio because he's from the same program that brought you Drew Brees and Nick Foles.

[Co-host]

Westlake produces some athletes.

[RG3]

Yeah, they really do. And guess what? He led them to three consecutive state championships coming out of high school. And you're like, oh, it's high school. What does that mean? Well, he never lost a game as a starter. He was 27:0 in his final two seasons, compiling an incredible 86 to 7 touchdown interception ratio.

[Co-host]

Holy smokes.

[RG3]

So When I tell you this guy was the unanimous consensus five star recruit coming out of high school, there was a reason for that. You heard all those passing numbers. Well, he also rushed for 31 touchdowns. He also was the state champion in the 400 meter dash as, as a sophomore. Okay, so Kate Klubnick has the bonafides. And the third reason I think the Cowboys should draft him is a system. Fitness. Sometimes to me, the system and the community in which you play can have a massive impact on how you play. So, yes, Dallas is not Austin, but Dallas is Texas. Okay. Cade would be coming back to the state that knows him, playing in front of the people that know him. That's going to give him the biggest boost to be the best player that he can be.

[Co-host]

True.

[RG3]

So I think that the Dallas Cowboys is the best place for him because Dallas might have just drafted tomorrow's starter today.

[Co-host]

That's a bar. All right, where do you think Sawyer Robertson fits in best?

[RG3]

But I think his best fit is with the Bills.

[Co-host]

Buffalo.

[RG3]

Buffalo.

[Co-host]

You gonna send this man from hot Texas to the Buffalo Bills?

[RG3]

I know, and listen, he was at. He was at Mississippi State and then he ended up going to Baylor. That's two hot places. But here's why I think the Buffalo Bills are three reasons why the Buffalo Bills are the best fit for Sawyer Robertson.

[Co-host]

In what round?

[RG3]

In the seventh round. Number one, all right, cold weather arm talent. Sawyer has the arm talent to survive the cold weather in Buffalo. Buffalo isn't just cold, it's windy. Okay. He has the arm strength to cut through the wind. Number two, he fits the environment. All right, his development behind an elite starter. Josh Allen is a guy that might be the best quarterback in the NFL the way that he's been playing lately. And, and yes, Patrick Mahomes is the best quarterback in the galaxy. He also missed a little bit of time last year and we don't know if he's going to be healthy. Josh Allen is a guy that gives defenses fits. Okay, so he can develop. Sawyer can develop behind a guy like Josh Allen because he fits the same profile. Arm strength, size 6 foot 5, running ability, not afraid to take contact and put his shoulder down and punish defenders. That is how Sawyer plays. He's not Josh Allen. Can he develop to become like a Josh Allen? I think that's intriguing. And three, the physical upside, in my opinion, is worth the investment. You talk about big arm, big weather, big opportunity. If anything ever happens to Josh Allen, could this be the guy? I know they've got Kyle Allen. Who's Josh Allen's one of his best friends, but if anything was to happen to Josh, could Sawyer Robertson said step in at some point if he's developed to be a guy that they can run the same system with? That's the question. But it's a low risk in the seventh round.

[Co-host]

Okay, where do you think Vanderbilt's very own Diego Pavia should go now?

[RG3]

Diego could. Diego. Diego literally could go anywhere from the first round through the seventh round, in my opinion. It just depends on how much risk you're willing to take with him. I think his Heisman weekend hurt him a lot with a lot of NFL teams because of the way that was handled. But I think the best place for him is the Tempe Buccaneers. Okay.

[Co-host]

That's where the clubs are.

[RG3]

No, no, no, no. You're funny, though. I believe the three reasons here are the three reasons why Diego Pavia should be drafted to Tempe Bucks. Number one, his mobility is an added element that I think a lot of teams or a lot of normal fans are overlooking. He can expand any offense because of his mobility. This guy can run, run and. And they didn't been big part. That ability to move and shake and groove opens up the passing game for him, even though he's extremely short.

[Co-host]

Yeah.

[RG3]

Number two, the current starter, Baker Mayfield in Tampa Bay is a bravado guy. And guess what? It invigorates the locker room. So if the locker room responds well to the bravado guy, if you bring in another bravado guy, everything should be fine. As long as the bravado guys don't start bumping heads. Right. Pause that. Number three, I think it's a low risk, high energy player in the seventh round. Okay, So I would take him in the seventh. I know some people say, hey, he's not draftable because of his height. Can he see? Would they move in positions? I think the higher you draft him, the higher the risk becomes. But as a seventh round flyer, to partner him with a Baker Mayfield down the line, if he grows and he develops and he still continues to play the quarterback spot, I think he could truly develop into a starting quarterback in the NFL. But it has to be the right environment. It has to be with the right guys around him. And I think Baker Mayfield could teach him a lot of how to harness that bravado and make sure it doesn't hurt your team.

[Co-host]

He wasn't too short to make it to the Heisman final, so, you know,

[RG3]

he wasn't too sure to bring Vanderbilt back to places they'd never been. Before.

[Co-host]

Exactly. So I, I had never known that Vanderbilt was even a football school until when Diego Pavia came out.

[RG3]

And we'll see if there continue to be a football school now that he's gone.

[Co-host]

Exactly. All right, viral spiral number one. Michael Jordan and Tyler Reddick are on a historic, historic run in NASCAR this year. So they have now won five races this season alone. They won the Daytona 500, they won the Atlanta Motor Speedway. They've won the Circuit of the Americas in Austin. They won Darlington Raceway and their most recent win came from the Kansas Speedway. All right, is Michael Jordan and 2011 racing dominance good for NASCAR?

[RG3]

Yes, yes, yes. Listen, NASCAR was at its peak. You guys gotta realize we're real NASCAR fans here. NASCAR was at its peak while Dale on Hart was dominating, when Jeff Gordon was dominating, when Jimmy Johnson was dominating. So now when you have Tyler Reddick, who's won five of the first nine races of the season with Michael Jordan as his team owner. This is like a golden ticket for nascar.

[Co-host]

Yeah.

[RG3]

Like, how could this be bad? They've been talking about how they need more stars. Tyler Redick could be the next star that NASCAR has been waiting for. Yes, the stars carry the sport. It's the truth. But Tyler Redick and Michael Jordan can help carry NASCAR further into another growth cycle. People want to see the races now because they might get a picture of Michael Jordan celebrating with spot a cigar in his mouth holding a trophy.

[Co-host]

True. Picking up Tyler Reddick.

[RG3]

NASCAR should be, and NASCAR fans should be embracing this. This is the moment you've been waiting for. Michael Jordan has brought it to you and Tyler Reddick is your guy. Run with it also.

[Co-host]

So happy we got to see one of those wins live in person.

[RG3]

Yes, we did. Coda Circuit of the Americas in Austin. It was awesome. It is one of the great experiences for our kids too. So I mean, I just think NASCAR is, it's getting more and more attention because of Michael Jordan.

[Co-host]

Absolutely.

[RG3]

And now that his team is winning and Tyler Redick is being so dominant, like this could be the, the beginning of a new golden age.

[Co-host]

Good job. Viral spiral number two. LeBron James is 41 years old and absolutely continues to carry the banged up Lakers without Luca Duncans and without Austin Reeves to playoff victories. Is LeBron the greatest basketball player of all time?

[RG3]

If LeBron James wins an NBA title this year, at 41 years old with the team he has around him right now 100, I would say he's the greatest of all time.

[Co-host]

You are gonna take that away from Michael Jordan that we just Talked about,

[RG3]

You know, I'm a Michael Jordan guy. Everyone who's ever talked to me knows I'm a Michael Jordan guy. But you would have to admit that what LeBron has to face this year in the playoffs, if he won an NBA title with this team without having Luca and Austin Reeves for the majority of the playoffs, they got to go through SGA and the Thunder. They potentially have to go through Jokic and the Nuggets, Anthony Edwards and the T Wolves, or Wimby and the spurs just to get to the finals. That's a gauntlet. Okay? But one thing is for sure, LeBron James is the epitome of greatness.

[Co-host]

I agree with that.

[RG3]

His longevity is almost unheard of. I mean, it really is unheard of in basketball. 41 and night in and night out, he can carry a team to victory. So I, I, I, I, I stand firm on that. I am a Michael Jordan guy. But if LeBron wins it this year, goat discussion is over. He would be the greatest of all time.

[Co-host]

The audacity, guys. The audacity.

[RG3]

I know, I know.

[Co-host]

Okay, we'll see what happens. Okay? But let's talk about LeBron and his son, Bronnie. Do you think that whole thing is overblown or do you think it should be praised more that there's a 41 year old man playing with his son in the same team during the same time?

[RG3]

Yeah, I think it should be praised more. I don't think it's overblown at all. If anything, I don't think it's getting enough attention.

[Co-host]

Okay.

[RG3]

LeBron and Bronnie just keep making history. Earlier in the season, they became the first father son assist in NBA history. Okay? Now they become the first father son playing in the playoffs together. I mean, if they become the first father son to win an NBA Finals together on the same team, it would literally break the Internet. So if you ask me, LeBron James and LeBron James Jr. Also known as Bronnie James, should be praised. This is the type of father you would want to be to create an environment where your kid can come in and earn his stripes. Because as many people hate on Bronnie, Bronnie has been absolutely balling in the G League. And when he has come up to play in the NBA games this season, he has been a massive contributor to what they're asking him to do. Knock down threes, be a great passer, be a great defender. That is what Bronny James is at this point. And guess what? There's guys that have had 15 year NBA careers. Just doing what Bronny James is doing right now, and he's only going to get better.

[Co-host]

Yeah.

[RG3]

So, yeah, some people thought he only got in the NBA because of his dad, but he's proving himself. And I think people should celebrate the fact that LeBron is playing so long and he has a chance to do it with his son. That is commendable.

[Co-host]

Yeah. LeBron opened the door for Bronnie to go and be great and to get all these opportunities, but then you got to actually do something with the opportunity facts. You got to put in the work. Like, you can get me a job, but then I got to do something about getting the job, taking the job, being great at the job. You know what I mean? Like, yeah, I mean, I think it's really cool that what they're doing. And if you imagine going home that night with two rings, just dad and son, just. That'd be so sweet.

[RG3]

Look at what we did.

[Co-host]

Yeah, that'd be so sweet.

[RG3]

Nah. Like, people can cry nepotism all day long, but at some point, you know, the rubber meets the road, and you either can roll. The rubber meets the road, the rubber meets the rubber. It's like you have a nice car in the garage, right? All right? So you got the wheels on that nice car. At some point, those wheels are gonna have to reach the road, and you're gonna find out if you can roll or if you can't. All right? So, Bronnie, hey, the rubber met the road. He's proving that he can do it.

[Co-host]

You feel me saying?

[RG3]

So I. That whether you want to cry nepotism or not, nepotism happens all over the world. Happens all in every industry. But at some point, the rubber is going to meet the road, and you're going to see can they get the job done or not? Are they a great leader? Can they be a role player on this team? Can they be a contributor? Bronnie's proving that he can be, and that's our show. We appreciate you guys staying all the way through the episode with us. We do these things in 30 minutes or less. By 30 minutes. By 30 minutes, 33 minutes. But by 30 minutes, we mean anything under 40 minutes. So we are right on the dot. Just under 40 minutes. We appreciate you guys. We love you. Make sure you like subscribe to our podcast. Follow us on social media. Let us know in the comments what you thought about our NFL draft predictions for the quarterback position. We didn't quite get to the Ravens, the Commanders, and the Browns when it comes to their draft classes, but that's because, you know, the show had this. The rubber hit the road. The rubber hit the road with the show. The show's got to stop. So. And let us know what you think about our LeBron conversation in Bronnie. And, of course, what's going on with NASCAR and Michael Jordan and Tyler Reddick. We'll see you guys next time. In the meantime, God bless, keep your head up. Never give up. Peace.